Overview On December 10, 2025 , Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mohammed Nadimul Haque voiced concerns in the Rajya Sabha regarding the alleged weakening of the Right to Information (RTI) Act by the central government. He claimed the government is 'reluctant and scared' about disclosing information and emphasized the need to protect the sanctity of the law. Key Developments Concerns Raised by Mr. Haque Fundamental Right: He highlighted that the right to seek information is recognized as a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Constitution. Systematic Demolition: He alleged that the RTI Act 2005 is being systematically undermined by the current government. Vacancies in CIC: As of November 2025 , eight of the ten posts at the Central Information Commission are vacant. Absence of Chief Information Commissioner: India has been without a Chief Information Commissioner since September 5, 2025 , leading to delays in disposing of appeals. RTI Website Issues: Complaints of website crashes and delayed OTPs have been raised by RTI activists over the past seven months. Pending Dues: He raised the issue of ₹52,000 crore of pending Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) dues to Bengal and ₹2 lakh crore under various schemes from the Union government. Allegations Against the Government Reluctance to Disclose Information: The MP accused the government of being reluctant and scared about disclosing information. Lack of Accountability: He alleged that the government is running away from being accountable to the people by weakening the RTI Act. UPSC Relevance This news is relevant to GS2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice and International relations) and GS3 (Economy) . It touches upon important aspects of transparency, accountability, and the functioning of statutory bodies like the Central Information Commission. The issues related to MGNREGA also have implications for rural development and employment. Potential UPSC Questions Discuss the significance of the RTI Act in promoting transparency and accountability in governance. What are the challenges faced in its effective implementation? Evaluate the impact of vacancies in the Central Information Commission on the functioning of the RTI Act. Suggest measures to strengthen the institution. Analyze the role of RTI in ensuring social justice and citizen empowerment. Critically examine the issues related to the release of funds under MGNREGA and their implications for rural livelihoods. Important Facts RTI Act Enactment: 2005 Constitutional Basis: Article 19 (Freedom of Speech and Expression) CIC Vacancies: 8 out of 10 posts vacant as of November 2025 MGNREGA Dues: ₹52,000 crore pending to Bengal